Hippotherapy Helps Children with Autism Develop Fine-Motor Skills

by: Barbara Smith, OTR/L

Horses have traditionally been used as treatment tools by physical therapists with the goals of improving a child’s balance, strength and coordination. This specialty area is called “Hippotherapy” and is done as a child rides or performs various motor tasks such as turning around to face backwards or kneeling while the horse is walking. Occupational therapists also do hippotherapy to work on these skills. However, therapeutic objectives may center around helping children with autism and other developmental disabilities improve sensory processing and develop fine-motor skills.

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Learn more from Barbara at her website www.barbarasmithoccupationaltherapist.com